Detailed profile of this breed: origin, year of creation, recognised varieties and official approvals.
Breed summary
Carrier pigeons are robust, medium-to-large homing birds bred primarily for speed, endurance and reliable return-to-home performance. Typical weight 0.5–0.8 kg; body length 28–34 cm; wingspan about 60–75 cm. Average flight speed ranges from 60–100 km/h. Practical home-distance range per leg is typically 500–1,200 km, and under optimal conditions birds have returned from distances exceeding 1,500 km. Lifespan in good care is about 6–12 years. Breeding involves 2 eggs per clutch and 2–4 clutches per year; sexual maturity occurs around 6–8 months.
Detailed origin
Origin: Traces to Columba livia domestica; messenger birds have been used across ancient civilizations (Egypt, Persia, Greece, Rome). Modern Carrier strains were consolidated in Europe during the 19th and early 20th centuries, with selection for speed and endurance through long-distance flights and message deliveries. National and international clubs standardized criteria for weight, wing length and body conformation, recognizing the Carrier as a distinct type within domestic pigeons.
Detailed description
Description: Morphology includes an elongated body, deep chest, and long wings; plumage varies widely (blue bar, checkered, solid colors, pied). Typical length 28–34 cm, wingspan 60–75 cm, with a stout breast and strong keel suited for sustained flight. Endurance adaptations include robust pectoral muscles and a compact skeleton. Temperament is intelligent and trainable; handling is easier with regular social contact. Care requirements include a spacious loft with perches and regular exercise; diet consists of a balanced mix of seeds and grains (roughly 60–70% cereals, 15–20% protein-rich seeds), plus grit and clean water; health checks should be regular. Reproduction: 2 eggs per clutch; incubation 17–19 days; 2–4 clutches per year; maturity around 6–8 months.
Recognised varieties for this breed
- Carrier self white
- Carrier black
- Carrier dun
- Carrier red
- Carrier yellow
- Carrier brown
- Carrier khaki
- Carrier barred or checked in blue
- Carrier silver
- Carrier ash-red
- Carrier ash-yellow
- Carrier blue grizzle
- Carrier variegated black
- Carrier self brown
- Carrier self khaki
- Carrier blue barred or checked
- Carrier argenté barré ou écaillé
- Carrier ash-red barred or checked
- Carrier jaune cendré barré ou écaillé
- Carrier brown barred
- Carrier khaki barred